SABBATH-SCHOOL
LESSON QUARTERLY
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THIRD QUARTER, 1908
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Whose Debtors We Are
HERE are millions in China, Japan,
Africa, and India, dying for want of
the Bread of Life which God has
given Christians to dispense to the hungry.
Christ has purchased us that we might be
linked with Him in saving others. Therefore,
as was Paul, we are "debtors both to the
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wise, and to the unwise." Rom. 1' : 14.
Sabbath-School Lessons
on the
Book of Nehemiah
Senior Division
Third Quarter, July 1, 1908
General Notes
The book of Nehemiah was anciently connected with the book
of Ezra, being a continuation of the account of the return of
the exiles from Babylon and the restoration of Jerusalem. Ezra
restored the temple and began a spiritual reform; Nehemiah
built .the walls; and together they joined in a second_ spiritual
reformation.
This book is the last of the historical records of the Old
Testament. At this time it appears that Ezra the scribe gath-
ered together all the books which now comprise the Old Testament
(except Malachi) and compiled the Scriptures, dividing them into
three parts, first, The Law; secondly, The Prophets; and thirdly.
the Hagiographa,
e.,
the holy writings. To these divisions
our Saviour apparently made reference when He said, "These
are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with
you, that all things might be fulfilled, which are written in the
law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning
Me."
The life of Nehemiah is a worthy example. He gladly left
a position bringing both honor and wealth for one of arduous
toil and persistent opposition, because the cause of God needed
him. He was a skilful organizer, and a zealous worker; a man
4
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
of great integrity, and sound faith; who could neither be
frightened by the threats of the enemies of the Lord nor seduced
by their flatteries. He relieved the oppressed, but punished
the oppressor.
A proper study of this book will help us to stand for the
same reforms at this time,—a separation from the world, a
strict observance of the true Sabbath, the conscientious payment
of our tithes and offerings, a tender care for the poor and dis-
tressed,—and give us courage in the face of our enemies to be
fearless of their threats but fearful of their blandishments.
TESSON I.—Prevailing Prayer.
JULY 4, 1908.
Questions.
1.
How many years intervened between- Ezra's going
up to Jerusalem, and the opening of the book of Nehe-
miah? Compare Neh. 1:1; 2:1 with Ezra 7: 7.
2.
Where was Nehemiah? Neh. 1: 1. Note 1.
3.
From whom did Nehemiah learn of the situation
in Jerusalem? Verse 2. Note 2.,
4.
Describe the condition of Jerusalem at this time.
Verse 3.
5.
How did Hanani's report affect Nehemiah ?
Verse 4.
6.
What did he connect with his prayers and how
did he address the Lord? Verses 4, 5.
7.
How continuous was this prayer? Verse 6.
8.
In what characteristic did Nehemiah's prayer re-
semble the prayer of Daniel and Ezra? Compare DUD.
9: 3-15 with Ezra 9: 5-15. Note 3.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
5
9.
What promise did Nehemiah plead? Neh. 1: 8, 9;
Deut. 4:25-31.
10.
In thus pleading, what scripture did he follow?
1 Kings 8: 47-50.
11.
By whom did the Lord save His people in a great
crisis? Hosea 12 : 13.
12.
How does Nehemiah speak of his-brethren ? Neb.
1: 10.
13.
Whose prayer does Nehemiah pray that God will
hear? Verse 11. Note 4.
14.
What was his position before the king? Same
verse.
Notes.
1: Shushan, the capital of Elam, was a very ancient city. It
is mentioned in the inscriptions of Asshur-bani-pal as captured
by him, about B. c. 650, and a plan of the city is given. It
passed into the hands of the Babylonians at the division of the
Assyrian Empire between Nabopolassar of Babylon and Cyaxares
of Media. In the third year of Belshazzar Daniel was at Shu-
shan "on the king's business." when he beheld "the vision
of the ram and the he-goat," Dan. 8: 1, 2, 27.. The conquest
of Babylon by Cyrus transferred Shushan to the Persians, and
it became the capital and chief residence of the Ackemenian
kings, being cooler than Babylon and more central than Ecbatana
and Persepolis, their summer resorts. Darius Hystaspes founded
at Shushan the grand palace referred to in Esther as occupied
by his son and successor Xerxes, Esther 1: 2, 5. Nehemiah was at
Shushan when he received from Jerusalem the intelligence that
led him to seek leave from Artaxerxes to rebuild the walls of the
holy city. Neh. 1: 1-28. As Susa, Shushan is often mentioned
by classic authors as the Persian capital, the province of Elam
being called Susis or Susiana, and also Cissia. The city retained
its eminence till the Macedonian conquest, when Alexander found
there treasure worth £12,000,000. After this period Susa de-
clined and Babylon increased. It was taken by Antigonus,
B.
c.
315.—"
Dictionary of the Bible," Published by American Tract
Society. Article " Shushan.'
2. Hanani was the brother of Nehemiah. Neh.
7:
2.
6
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
3.
It will be noticed that each of these godly men counted
himself as being guilty of the sins that brought upon Israel the
great calamity. Their attitude is very different from that of
those who think they have not sinned. Daniel and Nehemiah were
both men of God, and beloved of the Lord.
4.
One special point in Nehemiah's prayer was that God
would hear the petition of those who fear His name, and would
prosper his undertaking and giant him 'mercy in the sight of
the king. He recognized the fact that many others were praying.
and he believed that God would hear their prayers.'
LESSON 11.—Preparation for a Great Work.
JULY 11, 1908.
Questions.
1.
How much time elapsed between Nehemiah's hear—
ing of the situation at Jerusalem. and his. 'conversation
with
-
the king upon the matter?
.
'Compare Neh. 1: 1,
2
with Neh. 2: 1 and Zech. 7: 1. Note 1. .
2.
What was Nehemiah's usual, appearance in the
king's presence? Neh.. 2: 1.
3.
What reason did the king suggest for his sad •
countenance, and how did it affect Nehemiah'? Verse 2.
Note 2.
4.
What response did Nehemiah make? Verse 3.
5.
Give the king's reply. Verse 4.
6.
What did Nehemiah do before
.
he answered the
king? Verse 4. Note 3.
7.
What request did Nehemiah make? Verse 5.
8.
What is there in the king's reply that shows how
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
he was regarded by both the king and queen? Verse 6:
Compare P.rov. 22: 11.
9.
What further request did Nehemiah make? Verses
7, 8.
10.
Who influenced the king to grant the request?
Verse 8; last clause.
11.
Who accompanied Nehemiah when he delivered
the king's letter to the governors? Verse 9.
12.
What troubled Sanballat and Tobiah ? Verse 10.
13.
In what way did Nehemiah acquaint himself with
the extent of the city's ruins before he began any work ?
Verses 11-13.
14.
In what condition did he find the city? Verses
13-15.
15.' Who were still unacquainted with the object of
Nehemiah's visit to the city? Verse 16.
Notes.
.1. The year- of Artaxerxes' reign did not coincide with the
sacred year of the Jews,
but commenced
in
the sacred year
between
the months Nisan and Chislev; eonsequently the interval between
OhiSlev of Artaxerxes' twentieth year and Nisan of the same
year is to be determined by counting
forward
from Chislev of
the sacred year
-
of the Jews to the Nisan of the following sacred
year.
•
2. One who acted as cup-bearer to the king was expected
always to be cheerful. He had it in his power to take the life
of the king; and if he looked unhappy the king might suspect
some plot and he be killed; for this reason Nehemiah was "sore
afraid" when the king noticed his sad countenance.
3—"In the sight of men the self-sufficient worker may seem
to be moving the world, but in the sight of God, the humble
wrestler moves heaven. The hosts of God are interested in the
humble, praying man, who dares not make a move without first
coming in prayer int:3 the presence of God to counsel with the
Omnipotent."—Mrs.
E. G. White in "Review and Herald," July
4, 1893.
S
SA BBA TH-SCHOOL .LESSON QUARTERLY
LESSON III.-11
7
orking with Difficulties.
JULY 18, 1908. •
Questions.
1.
As soon as Nehemiah understood the condition of
the city, what did he urge his brethren to do ? Neh. 2 : 17.
2.
When Nehemiah told of the favors granted to him
how did it affect his brethren? Verse 18.
3.
Who opposed the work of rebuilding? What ac-
cusation did they bring against the Jews? Verse 19.
4.
Although Nehemiah was a faithful servant of the
Persian king, yet who did he say was his master? Verse
20. Note 1.
5.
How did the high priest and the rulers cooperate
with Nehemiah? Neh. 3 : 1.
6.
Who failed to bear any responsibility in this
work ? Verse 5.
7.
Whose daughters took part ? Verse 12. •
•
S. In what spirit did Baruch work ? Verse 20.
9.
Where did many work? Verses 10, 23, 28-30.
Note 2.
10.
What different occupations were represented in
building the wall? Verses 8, 31, 32. Note 3.
11.
What work will the people of God •do in the
last days ? Isa. 58 : 12, 13. Note 4..
•
12. How did the successful progress of the work affect
the enemies of the Jews? Neh. 4 : 1.
1.3. What did Sanballat say ? Verse 2.
14.
Give Tobiah's opinion of the work.. Verse 3. .
15.
To whom did the Jews appeal ? Verses 4, 5.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
9
Notes.
1.
Nehemiah did not consider his commission as governor of
Jerusalem as his greatest authority for building. When ques-
tioned by the Samaritans, he frankly told them that he trusted in
a higher power than earthly kings for help to carry forward the
work.
2.
Some built "over against" their own houses. In this is a
lesson for those who can not leave their homes to labor in the
Lord's work. There is always something to do by their own
homes.
3.
There was but one class mentioned that did not engage
in the work of rebuilding. This was the Nobles of the Tekoites.
All others including the priests, rulers, goldsmiths, apothecaries,
and merchants, entered heartily into the work of building the
wall. This was the first thing to be done, and it was that which
many years before their enemies had accused them of undertaking.
Ezra 4: 12, 13. Under Nehemiah the work was accomplished.
4.
Jerusalem had been laid in ruins, because "they mocked
the messengers of God, and despised His words, and misused His
prophets, until the wrath of the Lord- arose' against His people,
till there was no remedy. Therefore He brought upon them the
king of the Chaldees, who slew their young men with the sword
in the house of their sanctuary, and had no compassion upon
young man or maiden, old man
'
or him that stooped for age;
He gave them all into' his hand. And all the vessels of
the house of God, great and small, and the treasures of
the house of the Lord, and the treasures of the king and of his
princes, all these he brought to Babylon. And they burnt the
house of God, and broke down the wall of Jerusalem, and burnt
all the palaces thereof. And them that had escaped from the
sword carried he away to Babylon; where they were servants
to him and his sons until the reign of the kingdom of Persia:
to fulfil the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah, until
the land had enjoyed her sabbaths: for as long as she lay
desolate she kept sabbath, to fulfil three score and ten years."
2 Chron. 36: 16-21.
The Lord through the prophet Daniel had foretold that "the
street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times."
Dan. 9: 25. Some of the experiences passed through in fulfil-
ment of this prophecy are studied in these lessons.
Now, as in the days of Nehemiah, the true people of the Lord
are entrusted with a, special and an important work. A real city
is not to be rebuilt and a real wall restored, but a spiritual restor-
ation is to be accomplished. The foundation of many generations
10
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
is to be raised up, and the breach made by apostasy in the law
of Jehovah is to be restored. The rubbish of error must be
removed, and. the truths of God's word restored to the people.
The Sabbath of the Lord, long hidden beneath the traditions
of men, is to be restored to its proper place in the Demlogue.
In "troublous times" the law of God is to be reared up to
stand as a wall of defense for the people of God in the last days.
No work ever accomplished called for greater earnestness, zeal,
and consecration than this.
LESSON IV.—Difficulties Overcome.
JULY 25, 1908.
Questions.
1.
Did the work of rebuilding Jerusalem stop because
of opposition? Why did it go forward under these
adverse circumstances? Neh. 4: 6. Note 1.
2.
When the enemies of the -Jews heard that the
walls were being built, how did they feel about it?
Verse 7.
3.
What did they do? Verse 8. Note. 2.
4.
What course did Nehemiah and the Jews pursue ?
Verse 9. Note 3.
5.
What difficulties did Judah see in the way ?
Verse 10.
6.
From what standpoint did he look that he saw
such difficulties ? Neh. 6 : 17, 18.
7.
What was the enemy doing? Neh. 6: 19. Com-
pare Prov. 26: 20. Note 4.
8.
What plan was laid? Neh. 4:11'
9.
What message was sent to Israel ten tithes 4 Verse
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
11
12. (According to the Revised Version the message
was, "Ye must return unto us.")
10.
What precaution did Nehemiah take? Verse 13.
11.
With what words did he encourage them to go
forward with the work? Verse 14.
12.
How many kept at the work ?, Verse 15.
13.
How were Nehemiah's servants employed? Verse
16.
14.
Describe the way in which the builders worked.
Verses 17, 18.
15.
How should the builders in God's work be
equipped if they would not be driven from the work by
the enemy '1 2 Cor.. 10 : 4-6; Eph. 6: 12-18.
16.
What plans were laid for united resistance against
the enemy? Neh. 4:19, 20.
17.
How Fong did they labor each day? Verse 21.
18.
How was their zeal further shown? Verses 22,
23. Note 5.
Notes.
1.
When God's people "have a mind to work" and go for-
ward trusting in the Lord, the work of God always prospers.
2.
At every advance step in the work of God, Satan has been
alarmed. He sees divine agencies at work preparing the way,
and he raises up his agents to prevent the accomplishment of the
work if possible. The same opposition shown at the building of
the walls of Jerusalem will always be seen in connection with the
work of God. The same spirit of animosity manifested by the Am-
monites, the Horonites, and the Arabians will always appear when
God's work is going forward. These three nationalities were rep-
resented in Jerusalem, under the names of Sanballat, Tobiah, and
Geshem.
3.. In Neh., 4: 8, 9, is revealed the reason why we often meet
with such miserable defeats after great victories. When the
enemy sees a great victory gained, he becomes angry and gathers
his forces to hinder the work. If we always do as Nehemiah did,
12
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
pray and watch day and night, we shall escape the snares of
Satan and go from victory to victory.
4.
Judah thought the laborers were overworked and were weak,
and there was much rubbish. The reason for this was that he
was in communication with the enemy and not true to God and
His work. One who is compromising to-day with the enemies of
God's work, thus betraying it, will see difficulties in the way and
will hinder rather than hasten the Lord's work.
5.
God has, regard for the man or woman who in a time of
crisis will sacrifice every comfort and even life itself to carry
forward the work of the Lord. "The life that will be preserved
is the life that is freely given in service to God and man."
LESSON V.—New Difficulties.
AUGUST 1, 1908.
Questions.
1.
Who made complaint against the Jews? Neh. 5: 1.
2.
What was the ground of their complaint? Verses
2-4.
3.
How did this condition affect their relation one
to another? Verse 5.
4.
How did the situation affect Nehemiah? Verse 6.
5.
Whom did he rebuke ? In what words ? Verses
7-9.
6.
What did he command them to do ? Verses
10, 11.
7.
How was the matter finally adjusted? Verses
12, 13.
8.
What instruction of the Lord had they been dis-
regarding? Lev. 25: 35-37; Ex.. 22 : 25-27. Note 1.
9.
How long
did Nehemiah continue
to act as. gov-
ernor ? Neh. 5
14.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
13
10.
How did his course compare with that of former
governors? Verse 15.
11.
What additional burden did Nehemiah carry
while governor? Verse 16. Note 2.
12.
What liberal spirit did he manifest, because of his
regard for the people and the work ? Verses 17-19.
13.
How are such sacrifices regarded by the Lord?
Heb. 6: 10 ; Phil. 4 : 16-18. Note 3.
14.
What encouraging promises are made to those
who give freely ? Luke 6: 38; 2 Cor. 9: 6; :Prov. 11: 25.
Note 4.
15.
What warning is given against withholding ?
Prov. 11 : 24; 13 : 7.
Notes.
1.
-
Miry on money, or on anything used to relieve the unfortu-
nate and the oppressed, seems to have been strictly forbidden in
the word of God. Ps. 15: 5. Under certain other conditions,
however, they were permitted to take usury. Dent. 23: 19, 20.
We will do well to prayerfully study the principles involved, for
it is no doubt as applicable to us to-day as to' Israel anciently.
"In the view given me in Rochester, N. Y., Dec. 25, 1865,
I was shown that the subject of taking usury should be considered
by Sabbath-keepers. Wealthy . men have no right to take in-
terest from their poor brethren, but they may receive usury from
unbelievers."—Testimonies
for the Church, Vol. 1, page 534.
2.
Although Nehemiah held the high position of governor,
and no doubt had many opportunities to enrich himself if he so
desired, yet he did not do so. He continued to work on the wall,
and to set before all a splendid example of sacrifice. His ex-
ample contains a lesson which is well worthy of study at this
time. No people should be more willing to sacrifice than those
upon whom the end of the world has come.
3.
The Lord is not unmindful of the little sacrifices made
in behalf of His servants who are carrying burdens in His work.
The giving of a cup of cold water is. not
-
forgotten. Matt.
10: 42. It is the little things in life which settle our destiny.
With this thought in mind, read Matt. 25: 34-46.
14
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
4. "Whenever God's people, in any period of the world,
have cheerfully and willingly carried out His plan in systematic
benevolence and in gifts and offerings, they have realized the
standing promise that prosperity should attend all their labors
just in proportion as they obeyed his requirements. When they
acknowledged the claims of God, and complied with His require-
ments, honoring Him with their substance, their barns were filled
with plenty. But when they robbed God in tithes and offerings,
they were made to realize that they were not only robbing Him
but themselves; for He limited His blessings to them, just in pro-
portion as they limited their offerings to Him. "—"
Testimonies
for the Om
-
eh," Vol. 8, page 395.
LESSON VI.—The Controversy Intensified.
AUGUST. 8, 1908.
Questions.
1.
When Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem found they
could not frighten Nehemiah, what new plan did they
devise? Neh. 6: 1, 2.
2.
What reply was made to their proposal? Verse 3.
Note 1.
3.
How many times did they seek to have this con-
ference? Verses 4, 5.
4.
Give the substance of Sanballat's letter. Verses
6, 7.
5.
How did Nehemiah meet these accusations ?
Verse 8.
6.
How did Sanbailat's procedure affect the nobles ?
Verse 9.
7.
What did Shemaiah urge Nehemiah to do?
Verse 10.
8.
What reply did Nehemiah, make? Verse 11.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
15
9.
What did Nehemiah discover in regard to Shem-
aiah's course? Verses 12,.13.
10.
How did Nehemiah regard the act of being turned
from his purpose ? Verse 13.
11.
How did he pray concerning Tobiah and San-
ballat ? Verse 14.
12.
When was the wall finished? How long had they
been building it ? Verse 15.
13.
What did even their enemies perceive when they
saw the finished wall? Verse 16.
14.
What relation existed between Tobiah and the
nobles of Judah ? Verses 17-19. Note 2.
Notes.
1.
It was a time of greater peril to the work when the adver-
saries tried to make friendly overtures than when they were openly
fighting against it.
2.
The nobles of Judah had mingled with the company of
Tobiah until they could not discern spiritual things. History
repeats itself, and "Those who have step by step yielded to
worldly demands, and conformed to worldly customs, will not
find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than
subject themselves to derision, insult, threatened imprisonment.
and death. The contest is between the commandments of God
and the commandments of men. In this time, the gold will be
separated from the dross in the church. True godliness will be
clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it. Many
a star that we have admired for its brilliancy, will then go out
in darkness.—"
Testimonies for the Church," Vol. 5, page 8.1.
LESSON VII.—The Purification of the Priesthood.
AUGUST 15, 1908.
Questions.
1.
After the walls were finished what was the next
step in the work of reformation ? Neh 7 : 1.
16
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
2.
Why
was
Hanani placed in charge of Jerusa-
lem? Verse 2.
3.
What precaution was taken to protect the city?
Verse 3.
4.
What was the condition of the city? Verse 4.
5.
What did Nehemiah then do ? Verse 5.
6.
What was done with the priests that could not
find their genealogy ? Verses 63, 64.
7.
In what way could this decision be changed ?
Verse 65. Note 1.
8.
How many did the congregation number at this
time? Neh. 7:66, 67.
9.
What donations were now made by the governor
and chief of the fathers ? Verses 70, 71. .
10.
Did the people also have a•part in this donation ?
Verse 72.
11.
When was the work completed so that the people
could return to their own cities? Verse 73. Note 2.
12.
How many months since Nehemiah had first
planned to go to Jerusalem? Compare verse 73 with
Neh. 2: 1.
13.
What other leader of the people was still in Jeru-
salem? Neb. 8: 1.
14.
How long since Ezra had gone up to j erusalem?
Compare Ezra 7: 7, 8 with Neh. 2: 1.
Notes.
1. The Urim and Thummim gave the direct mind of the Lord
in the matter, and therefore was higher authority than the gov-
ernor. Ex. 28: 30; Nuni. 27: 21; 1 Sn,m. 28: 6. Read chapter
30 in "Patriarchs and Prophets."
"At the right and left of the breastplate were two large
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
17
.
stones of great brilliancy. These were known as the Urim and
Thummim. By them the will of God was made known through
the high priest. When questions were brought for decision be-
fore the Lord, a halo of light encircling the precious stone at
the right was a token of the divine consent or approval, while a
cloud shadowing the stone at the left was an evidence of denial
or disapprobation."—"Patriarchs
and Prophets," page 351.
2. The Jews were engaged in a steady
-
work of reform, and the
whole plan of their enemies was to divert them from their work.
First they sought to frighten the Jews, and when they would
not be frightened, efforts were made to arrange a conference with
them, reporting things that were not true. This conference was
sought under the pretense of friendship, but war was in the
heartg of their enemies continually.
LESSON VIII.—The Reading of the Law.
AUGUST 22, 1908.
Questions.
1.
When the people were gathered together what re-
quest did they make of Ezra ? Neh. 8 : 1.
2.
Who attended the reading of the law? Verse 2.
3.
How long did the reading continue? Verse 3.
4.
Upon what did Ezra stand while reading ? Verse 4.
5.
When Ezra opened the book what did the people
do? Verse 5.
.
6.
When he blessed the Lord what did the people say ?
Verse 6.
•
7.
What part did those who assisted Ezra act?
Verse 7.
8.
What was done in order that the people might
comprehend the instruction in the book of the law ?
Verse 8. Note 1.
18
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
9.
Who besides the Levites assisted Ezra in speaking
to the people? Verse 9.
10.
At the close of the reading what special instruction
was given to the people? Verses 10, 11.
11.
How did they show their thankfulness for an un-
derstanding of the word? Verse 12.
12.
For what purpose did the people assemble the
second day? Verse 13.
13: What instruction did they find? Verses 14, 15.
14.
What did the people do? Verses 16, 17.
15.
How often was the law read during the feast?
Verse 18.
16.
Of what was the Feast of Tabernacles a type ?
Note 2.
Notes.
1.
The marginal reading of this verse in. the Revised Version
is as follows: "And they read in the book, in the law of .God,
with an interpretation; and they gave the sense, and caused them
to understand." Owing to a difference in language it was neces-
sary that some one should interpret the reading to the people
so that they might understand it. This verse has no special
reference to the excellence of the reading in the ordinary sense.
2.
"The Feast of Tabernacles was not only commemorative, but
typical. It not only pointed back to the wilderness sojourn,
but as the feast of harvest, it celebrated the ingathering of the
fruits of the earth, and pointed forward to the great day of
final ingathering, when the Lord of the harvest shall send forth
His reapers to gather the tares together in bundles for the fire,
and to gather the wheat into His garner., . . . The people
of Israel praised God at the Feast of Tabernacles, as they called
to mind His mercy in their deliverance from the bondage of
Egypt, and His tender care for them during their pilgrim life
in the wilderness. They rejoiced also in the consciousness of
pardon and acceptance, through the service of the day of atone-
ment, just ended. But when the ransomed of the Lord shall
have been safely gathered into the heavenly
Canaan,—forever
delivered from the bondage of the curse, under which 'the whole
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
19
creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now,'—
they will rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Christ's
great work of atonement for men will then have been completed,
and their sins will have been forever blotted
out."—"Patriarchs
and Prophets," pages 541, 542.
"Well would it be for the people of God at the present time
to have a Feast of Tabernacles—a joyous commemoration of the
blessings of God to them. As the children of Israel celebrated
the deliverance that God had wrought for their fathers, and
His miraculous preservation of them during their journeyings
from Egypt, so should we, gratefully call to mind the various
ways He has devised for bringing us out from the world, and
from the darkness of error, into the precious light of His grace
and
truth."---"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages .540, 541.
LESSON IX.—Israel Continues to Seek God.
AUGUST 29, 1908.
Questions.
1.
What did Israel do on the twenty-fourth day of
the seventh month? Neh. 9 : 1.
2.
What work of reform followed the reading of the
law? Verse 2.
3.
How much of each day was spent in reading the
law ? How much of each day was spent in confession
and worship? Verse 3.
4.
What did the Levites say to the people? Verses
4, 5.
5.
To what phase of God's power did they call
especial attention ? Verse 6.
20
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
6.
Of what covenant did they remind the Lord?
Verses 7, 8.
7.
What deliverance did .they next mention ?
Verse 9.
8.
Mention some of the wonderful things God did for
His people at, that time. Verses 10-12.
9.
What was given them at Sinai? Verses 13, 14.
10.
How was their hunger and thirst supplied?
Verse 15.
11.
Notwithstanding these great manifestations of
the power of God what course did they pursue ? Verses
16-18.
12.
In what ways did the Lord still show His love for
His people ? Verses 19, 20.
13.
How long did He sustain them? What special
miracles are mentioned? Verse 21.
14.
Name some of the ways in which the Lord blessed
them in temporal matters. Verses 22-25.
15.
In what five ways did they show their disregard
for God's love and care? Verse 26.
16.
Relate God's dealings with them even, when they
cast His law behind their backs. Verses 27-30.
17.
Why did He not destroy them? Verse 31.
18.
What confession followed this rehearsal of God's
mercies to ancient Israel? Verses 32-38.
19.
What lesson should we learn from the experience
of Israel in the wilderness ? 1 Cor. 10 : 6-11.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
21
LESSON X.—Reform in Worship.
SEPTEMBER 5, 1908.
Questions.
1.
Whose name headed the list of those who re-
newed their consecration to the Lord? Neh. 10 : 1.
2.
In what solemn way did the people pledge them-
selves to faithfulness to God's law ? Verses 28-30.
3.
With what strictness were they to observe the
Sabbath ? Verse 31.
4.
What is meant by the expression, "Leave the
seventh year, and the exaction of every debt"? Ex.
23 : 10, 11; Dent. 15 : 1, 2.
5.
What provision was made to defray the expenses
of the regular offerings of the sanctuary? Neh. 10:
32, 33.
6.
How was the wood to keep the altar-fires burn-
ing provided year by year? Verse 34.
7.
Where were the first-fruits brought ? Verses
35-37.
8.
After provision was made for defraying the ex-
penses connected with the sanctuary service, what other
fund was spoken of ? Verse 37, last clause. Note 1.
9.
For what purpose was the tithe to be used ? Num.
18 : 21.
10.
Were the Levites instructed to pay tithes? Neb.
10 : 38.
11.
How did the people regard those who willingly
left their homes to dwell in Jerusalem ? Neh. 11: 1; 2.
12.
What was the rank of the men who had charge
22
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
of the outward business of the house of the Lord? Neh.
11 : 16.
13.
In arranging 'the temple service what instruction
did Nehemiah follow? Neh. 12: 24. Note 2.
14.
What course had they pursued that made them
familiar with God's instruction regarding the service
of the temple? Neh. 8 : 3; 9 : 3.
Notes.
1.
There are many things here worthy of study. A syste-
matic arrangement was made to supply all the expenses con-
nected with the temple service. The tithe was sacredly kept
for the use for which God designed it.
2.
It is evident that the people 'so thoroughly studied the law
and the worship of the sanctuary arranged by David and Sol-
omon that they were familiar with every feature that God had
ordained. It was one of the most thorough reforms of which
we have any Bible record. It fitly illustrates what will finally
be accomplished under the third angel's message.
LESSON XI.—Dedication of the Wall.
SEPTEMBER 12, 1908.
Questions.
1.
What part did the Levites act in the dedication of
the wall? Neh. 12-: 27.
2.
Who else gathered themselves together for the
dedication? Verses 28, 29.
3.
How many companies were formed on the wall ?
Verse 31.
4.
Who went before the company that went on the
right hand upon the wall? Verse 36, last clause.
5.
Who went with the other company? Verse 38.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
23
6.
Where did the two companies meet? Describe
the service. Verses 40-43.
7.
What • provision was made properly to care for'
the tithes and offerings? Verses 44-47.
8.
What did they learn from the reading of the law
on the day of dedication ? Neh. 13: 1..
9.' Why were the Ammonites and Moabiteg, excluded
from the house of God? . Verse 2. Note 1.
10.
What was the result of hearing the word of God?
Verse 3.
11.
Who had charge of the chamber where the tithesi
and offerings were stored? Verse 4.
12.
Where was Tobiah living? Verses 4, 5.
13.
Where was Nehemiah while these changes were.
taking place? Verse 6. Note 2.
1.4. How long was Nehemiah in Jerusalem before he,
returned to Babylon ? Verse 6; Neh. 2: 1.
15.
What did Nehemiah do with 1'obiah's household
stuff ? Neh. 13 : 8.
16.
What command was given in regard to the tithe
chamber ? Verse 9.
17.
What did Nehemiah perceive concerning the
tithe? Verse 10.
18.
What did he do to' correct this matter? Verse 11.
197 What was the result? -Verse 12. Note 3.
20. What provision was made for a proper and careful
distribution of the tithe? Verse 13.
Notes.
1. The Ammonites and Moabites were not excluded from the
congregation simply because they belonged to those nations, but
because of their evil character. Tobiah retained the character
24
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
of his ancestors who did evil in the sight of the Lord. Deut 23:
3, 4; but Ruth, the Moabitess,_ who loved the Lord and chose His
service, was the honored great grandmother of David and is
reckoned in the genealogy of Christ. Ruth 4: 10, 13; 17.
2.
After the wall was dedicated and the various reforms in
the temple service introduced, it seems that Nehemiah fulfilled
his promise to the king and queen and returned to Babylon. Neh.
2: 6. How long he remained in Babylon is not recorded.
3.
"The work of God, which should be going forward with
tenfold its present strength and efficiency, is kept back, like a
spring season held by the chilling blast of winter, because some
of God's professed people are appropriating to themselves the
means that should be dedicated to His service. Because Christ's
self-sacrificing love is not interwoven in the life practises, the
'church is weak where it should be strong. By its own course it
has put out its light, and robbed millions of the Gospel of
Christ."--"Review and Herald," Oct. 13, 1896.
"Let the church appoint pastors or elders who are devoted
to the Lord Jesus, and let these men see that officers are chosen
who will attend faithfully to the work of gathering in the tithe.
If the pastors show that they are not fitted for their charge,
if they fail to set before the church the importance of returning
to God His own, if they do not see to it that the officers under
them are faithful, and that the tithe is brought in, they are in
peril. They are neglecting a matter which involves a blessing
or a curse to the church. They should be relieved of their re-
sponsibility, and other men should be tested and tried.—"Review
and Herald," Dec. 1, 1896.
LESSON XII.—Proper Sabbath Observance.
SEPTEMBER 19, 1908.
Questions.
1.
When Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem what did
he find the people doing on the Sabbath day ? Neh.
13 : 15, 16.
2.
What promise had they previously made the Lord
concerning this matter? Neh. 10: 31.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
25
3.
How did Nehemiah regard their slackness in
Sabbath-keeping? Neh. 13 : 17.
4.
Why had they been carried into captivity?
Verse 18.
5.
When did Nehemiah close the. gates of the city ?
Verse 19.
6.
What is the day before the Sabbath called? Ex.
16 : 5; Luke 23:54.
7.
What preparation for the Sabbath should be
made on this day? Ex. 16: 22, 23. Note.
8.
What further instruction is given us concerning
the proper observance of the Sabbath? Isa. 58 : 13.
9.
How did Jesus emphasize the importance of keep
ing the Sabbath? Matt. 24 : 20.
10.
What charge of breaking the Sabbath was brought
1-
iy the Pharisees against the disciples upon a certain
Iccasion? Matt. 12 : 1, 2.
11.
What reply did Jesus make to the accusation ?
Verses 3-8.
12.
What did the Lord of the Sabbath say was proper
to do upon the Sabbath day ? Verses 9-12.
13.
What example has been left us by the Saviour•
in reference to keeping the Sabbath? Luke 4 : 16.
•
14.
Among what evils does the Lord place a desire
for the Sabbath to close that we may attend to business?
Amos 8:4-7.
15.
What did Nehemiah say to those who came on the
Sabbath to sell their wares? With what result? Neh.
13: 20-22.
26
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
Note.
"God requires that His holy day be as sacredly kept now
as in the time of Israel. The command given to the Hebrews
should be regarded by all Christians as an injunction from
Jehovah to them. The day before the Sabbath should be made
a day of preparation, that everything may be in readiness for
its sacred hours. In 'no case should our own business be allowed
to encroach upon holy time. God has directed that the sick
and suffering be cared for; the labor required to make them •
comfortable is a work of mercy, and no violation of the Sab-
bath; but all unnecessary work should be avoided. Many care-
lessly put off till the beginning of the Sabbath little things
that might have been done on the day of preparation. This
should not be. Work that is neglected until the beginning• of
the Sabbath should remain undone until it is past. This course
might help the memory of these thoughtless ones, and make
them careful to do their own work on the six working days. "
—" Patriarchs and Prophets," page e78.
,
LESSON X.I11.—Separation from the. World.
SEPTEMBER 26, 1908.
Questions.
1.
What' other evil bdsides Sabbath-breaking did
Nehemiah find among the Jews? Neh. 13:23.
2.
What solemn promise had they made some time_
before concerning this matter? Neh. 10:29, 30.
3.
What reason was given why they should
not
marry strange wives? Deut. 7: 3, 4.
4.
What similar instruction is given to us? 2 Cur.
6: 14, 15. Note 1.
5.
'What evil results followed intermarrying with the
heathen ? Neh. 13 : 24. Compare Lev. 24: 10-14.
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
27
6. How did Nehemiah
.
deal with those who had
married strange wiv
.
es?
-
Neh. 13 : 25.
7., How highly was Solomon regarded by the fiord?
How was he led into sin? Verse 26. Compare 1 Kings
8. In what strong words is the evil of marrying
•
strange wives set forth? Neh. 13: 27.
9.
Into what family had one of the priests married ?
How did Nehemiah deal with the matter? Verse 28.
10.
What is the last recorded work of Nehemiah?
Ver'ses 29-31.
11.
How complete should be the separation between
God's people and the world? 2 Cor. 6:17, 18.; 7:1.
Note 2.
12.
In prayer what request did Jesus make for His
people touching this point? John 17 : 15.
13.
What does God call those who have friendship
with the world ? James 4: 4.
Notes.
1. "It is a dangerous thing to form a worldly alliance.
Satan well knows that the hour that witnesses the marriage of .
many young men and women closes the history of their religious
experience and usefulness. They are lost to Christ. They may
for a time make an effort to live a Christian life; but all their
strivings are made against a steady influence in the opposite
direction. Once it was a privilege and a joy to them to
speak of their faith and hope • but they become unwilling to
mention the subject, knowing tat the one with whom they have
linked their destiny takes no interest in it. As the result, faith
in the precious truth dies out of the heart, and Satan insidiously
weaves about them a web of skepticism."
"Spiritual declension commences the moment the vow is
made at the altar; religious fervor is dampened, and one strong-
hold after another is , broken down, until both stand side by
28
SABBATH-SCHOOL LESSON QUARTERLY
side under the black banner of Satan. Even in the festivities
of the wedding, the spirit of the world triumphs against con-
science, faith, and truth. In the new home the hour of prayer
is not respected. The bride and bridegfoom have chosen each
other
,
and dismissed Jesus. "—"
Testimonies for the Church,"
Vol. 4, pages 504, 505.
"Hundreds have sacrificed Christ and Heaven in consequence
of marrying unconverted persons. Can it be that the love and
fellowship of Christ are of so little value to them that they
prefer the companionship of poor mortals? Is Heaven so little
esteemed that they are willing to risk its enjoyments for one
who has no love for the precious Saviour?
"—Ib.,
page
507.
2. " Then my eyes were taken from the glory, and I was
pointed to the remnant on the earth. Said the angel to them,
`Will ye shun the seven last plagues? Will ye go to glory, and
enjoy all that God has prepared for those that love Him, and
are willing to suffer for His sake? If so, ye must die that ye
may live. Get ready, get ready, get ready. Ye must have a
greater preparation than ye now have, for the
day
of the
Lord eometh, cruel both with wrath and fierce anger, to lay the
land desolate, and to destroy the sinners thereof out of it.
Sacrifice all to God. Lay all upon His altar,—self, property,
and all, a living sacrifice. It will take all to enter glory. Lay
up for yourselves treasure in Heaven, where no thief can ap-
proach,. or rust corrupt. Ye must be partakers of Christ 's suf-
ferings here, if ye would be partakers with Him of His glory
hereafter.'
"—"Early Writings," pages 56, 57.
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